Another day, another cannabinoid. Today we're looking at tetrahydrocannabivarin or THCV. In this guide, we explain:
- What is THCV?
- How does THCV work?
- What is the difference between THC and THCV?
- Where is THCV found?
What is THCV?
THCV is a type of cannabinoid that is found in cannabis. While not as popular as THC and CBD, it appears to have potential as a cannabinoid powerhouse in marijuana. Like other cannabinoids, THCV interacts with the endocannabinoid system in unique ways that we continue to study to fully understand.
While the chemical structures of THC and THCV look very similar and may have some similarities in terms of psychoactive properties, THCv at the right dose is a unique cannabinoid found in marijuana. In fact, it is so unique and available in such small amounts that we have only just begun to truly understand, commercialize and grow strains containing this compound.
How does THCV work?
Here's the interesting part about THCV. It seems that THCV in low doses acts against the CB1 receptor, which is one of the receptors in our body that is affected by THC. For this reason, THCV has no psychoactive properties at low doses. However, at higher doses, THCv can change the way it interacts with the body and begins to work with the CB1 receptors. This means that at high doses, you can feel a THC-like effect from THCv.
What is the difference between THC and THCV?
THC differs from THCV in a few ways. The first is that THC is likely to produce a psychoactive effect, whereas THCV, as described above, can produce this effect at higher doses. Furthermore, while THC is thought to reduce the increase the appetite of cannabis users, THCV THCV can suppress appetite. Finally, the psychoactive effect of THCV is so unique compared to THC THCV is so unique that it has been given its own nickname - the 'sports car' of cannabinoids. This is because THCV intoxication is described as brief but potentially intense.
More research is needed to understand the effects of THC or THCV on the human body, and cannabis and cannabinoids affect everyone differently.
Where is THCV found?
THCV is naturally found in marijuana in very small amounts, so it is difficult to build a product around it. When cannabis is consumed, there are some strains with high THCV content including Durban Poison and Jack The Ripper Reg.. In general, African African sativas tend to carry the most THCV.
From there, it's best to look for full-spectrum products that contain THCV. Products that only contain THCV, such as pure THCV tincture, are limited and may not be available in your region.
Read more: Guide to cannabinoids
Disclaimer
It is important that you are aware that we make no medical claims. The content of this site is for informational and educational purposes only. The information we provide comes from various research papers, scientific articles and research we have compiled from external sources. Please note that legislation varies from country to country. For this reason, we recommend that you always inform yourself about the local laws in your home country.